Random Member Contributions

There is nothing that can mitigate the pain that comes when I’ve stabilized enough to realize the actions I have taken while symptomatic. I can never undo the hurt my actions have caused others, and some of those relationships can never be repaired. And that’s tragic. Truly. But it is also the direct result of a symptom I could not manage at that time, and not a reflection of who I am as a person. It is exactly the same as any other symptom associated with any other chronic, debilitating disease. It is very unfortunate that my symptoms sometimes result in actions that can outwardly and directly hurt others. Therefore, self-forgiveness has been critical for me in living with Bipolar. All I can do is be sensitive to the hurt I’ve caused, work to repair relationships when given the opportunity, and take responsibility for my actions without harboring the deep shame I would be entitled to if I’d acted purposefully or out of malice. It’s easier said than done. But it’s worth trying.”
–Author Unknown

Promises and Pitfalls of the Spiritual Path – Ram Dass Full Lecture 1988

https://www.desiderata.com/desiderata.html

Desiderata: Original Text

This is the original text from the book where Desiderata was first published.

Go placidly amid the noise and the haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence. As far as possible, without surrender, be on good terms with all persons.

Speak your truth quietly and clearly; and listen to others, even to the dull and the ignorant; they too have their story.

Avoid loud and aggressive persons; they are vexatious to the spirit. If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain or bitter, for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself.

Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans. Keep interested in your own career, however humble; it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.

Exercise caution in your business affairs, for the world is full of trickery. But let this not blind you to what virtue there is; many persons strive for high ideals, and everywhere life is full of heroism.

Be yourself. Especially do not feign affection. Neither be cynical about love; for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment, it is as perennial as the grass.

Take kindly the counsel of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth.

Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune. But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings. Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness.

Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself. You are a child of the universe no less than the trees and the stars; you have a right to be here.

And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should. Therefore be at peace with God, whatever you conceive Him to be. And whatever your labors and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life, keep peace in your soul. With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be cheerful. Strive to be happy.